Best Heater for Garage Gym

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Best Heater for Garage Gym

Your garage can often get cold and drafty, so if you are planning to use it for anything more than simple storage, this can become a problem– especially as the months get colder! Many people like to use their garage as a gym space, as gym equipment is bulky and can take up a lot of square footage in your home.

However, you will want to be sure that your garage is warm enough so that you can still comfortably work out in the colder months. 

Take a look below for a roundup of some of the best heating options that you can find for your garage gym. 

Also Read – Best Electric Garage Heater 120v

Also Read – Best Heater for an Uninsulated Garage

Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater 

(https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Infrared-Heater-Portable-1500-Watt/dp/B002QZ11J6?&linkCode=ll1&tag=powerlt-20&linkId=688a71d2c28337af021feae28e10d587&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

The Dr Infrared space heater model is one of the best options on this list, though it is the one of the more expensive options, too. It is great because it is able to heat up large spaces pretty quickly, and as it is an infrared heater, it warms the objects in space by transferring heat to them. 

This particular heater has a 12-hour timer so that you can set it to warm up the garage before you come in for your workout. It can also be set to an exact temperature, which is not a feature that you will see on all garage heaters. This way, you can make sure that the garage stays warm, but you do not get too hot and overheat while you are working out. It comes on wheels that make it easy to move around your space and weighs 24 pounds.

Some of the model’s advantages and disadvantages are below:

  • Sleek and attractive design
  • Low noise level
  • Includes automatic timer
  • Tip over protection
  • Can program thermostat to an exact temperature
  • Expensive
  • Filter must be cleaned at end of season

De’Longhi Radiant Space Heater

(https://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-Comfort-Thermostat-Settings-Features/dp/B000TGDGLU/ref=dp_fod_1?pd_rd_w=T6jaR&content-id=amzn1.sym.d4cdfb0a-d4b4-4f0b-8c51-55838af3328a&pf_rd_p=d4cdfb0a-d4b4-4f0b-8c51-55838af3328a&pf_rd_r=X3XG9A92XMPV7395FWR6&pd_rd_wg=3kHML&pd_rd_r=9942c319-04ad-47e1-b8b7-47bddd792b53&pd_rd_i=B000TGDGLU&psc=1)

The De’Longhi space heater model is one that can be a great affordable option but is also not a good choice for a larger garage. It produces a sufficient amount of space to heat small spaces and smaller garages, but if you are shopping for a larger garage, you may want to explore some of the other options on this list instead. 

It has an automatic shut-off feature, and also has an adjustable thermostat and 3 separate heat settings, making it easy to customize the heat to your space and to your needs. The finishes used on this heater are rust-proof, too, so the model will hold up in a garage space, even when coming into contact with moisture or the elements. In addition to all of this, it runs very quietly and will definitely not overpower your workout playlist! 

Some of the model’s advantages and disadvantages are below:

  • Affordable
  • A permanently sealed oil system requires no maintenance
  • Wheeled and portable
  • Multiple heat settings
  • Adjustable thermostat
  • Does not produce enough heat for large garages

Sunnydaze Forced Air Propane Heater

(https://www.amazon.com/Sunnydaze-125-Forced-Propane-Heater/dp/B08L46GXW3?&linkCode=ll1&tag=powerlt-20&linkId=30a1af021135bb217419cd83711cca9f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)

The Sunnydaze propane heater is another of the more expensive options on this list, and there are a few reasons why! It is a great choice for a space that is larger than 500 square feet, as it is able to heat up larger spaces– up to a little over 1000 square feet– in a matter of minutes. This can be great if you want to squeeze in a quick workout and need your garage to heat up fast! However, it is also important to note that this is a heater that can only be used in well-ventilated spaces, as it utilizes propane. You can get around this by leaving a door or window open.

Another thing to note is that the propane tank and the fuel for the heater are both sold separately– it doesn’t all come together, which can be inconvenient for some. The heater does go through propane quickly, so this can also get expensive. A 20-pound tank will last approximately 3 hours if being run constantly. Of course, if you need the propane to last longer, you can always purchase a larger tank. Propane heaters do also introduce moisture into the air, which can cause some of your gym equipment to rust if you are not careful. 

Some of the model’s advantages and disadvantages are below:

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Automatic shutoff at 85 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Heat up large areas quickly 
  • Expensive
  • Propane tanks and fuel are sold separately 
  • Needs to be used in a well-ventilated space
  • Introduces moisture into the air

Heat Storm Infrared Heater

(https://www.amazon.com/Heat-Storm-HS-1500-PHX-WIFI-Infrared-Heater/dp/B07JXRWJ8D?&linkCode=ll1&tag=powerlt-20&linkId=733dad087cad4cb9be317c299f9b45cb&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)

So far, in this roundup, we have been going over different portable heater options. However, there are also some wall-mounted options that can work very well for a home garage. One of these is the Heat Storm infrared heater model. It can either be mounted to the wall or left on the floor, though if you do not mount it, you will need to purchase feet separately ro elevate the model. 

Reviewers have said that they can feel this heater working within five minutes, so this is one heater that works much faster than some of the others out there on the market. Another great perk of the Heat Storm model is that it can be hooked up to certain apps, such as Amazon Alexa or the Smart Life mobile app, so you can easily control it while on the go– or, you can even turn it on from inside your house to save yourself an extra trip to the garage! Of course, you will want to make sure that you turn the heater off, too. 

While this particular heater is less portable and does not have wheels, it is one of the lightest options on this list, coming in at only 9 pounds. This can make it easier to set up, whether you decide to mount it on the wall or keep it elevated on the ground. 

Some of the model’s advantages and disadvantages are below:

  • Easy to set up
  • Lightweight at only 9 pounds
  • Works quickly and efficiently 
  • Can be controlled via apps
  • Not a great choice for larger spaces
  • If you do not mount it, it needs to be elevated with feet that are sold separately 

Lasko Oscillating Electric Ceramic Space Heater

(https://www.amazon.com/Lasko-CT16450-Oscillating-Thermostat-Protection/dp/B08KSJZW4T?&linkCode=ll1&tag=powerlt-20&linkId=b3eec779ea782f70dd9e5c0195f7aec5&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)

The Lasko space heater is one of the most affordable options on this list, making it a great choice for someone who needs to heat their garage gym but is working with a small budget. This heater also oscillates, meaning that it will move back and forth and blow hot air further around your space. You can leave it pointed toward the particular equipment that you will be using during that particular workout. 

This particular heater has two different heat settings, so you can adjust it based on how cold the garage is each day you are working out. There is a cooler option for months that are not too cold yet, and then you can blast the heat more once the colder winter months approach. However, when considering this particular heater option, it is important to be aware that it would not sufficiently heat your garage if you are working with a larger space. It is best for spaces that are up to 300 square feet. Also, if the heater is running for too long, the plug will get hot. However, the rest of the surface of the heater does stay cool!

Some of the model’s advantages and disadvantages are below:

  • Affordable
  • Doesn’t take up a lot of space
  • Quiet operation
  • Does not get hot when running
  • Cannot heat up larger garage spaces
  • The plug gets hot if running too long

Fahrenheit Electric Heater

(https://www.amazon.com/Fahrenheat-FUH54-240-volt-Garage-2500-5000-watt/dp/B0000AXEZV?&linkCode=ll1&tag=powerlt-20&linkId=b9f8200f2438b810b144ebb4d61a27f3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)

The Fahrenheit electric heater is the most expensive of the heaters we have included on this list, but if you have a larger budget to work with here, it can be a fantastic choice for heating your garage gym! It is easy to install, and can even be mounted on your ceiling if you would prefer, making it a great way to save some extra space– especially if your garage is on the more cluttered side. It also features an automatic shutoff for if the model gets too hot, plus a fan. The fan start can be delayed until the heating elements are all warmed up. 

Of course, there are some drawbacks to this model, too. It does need to be hardwired to your home’s electrical system, which means you will need the help of an electrician unless you are one yourself. Also, the model does come with a built-in thermostat, but it is often inaccurate. You may want to combat this by connecting the heater to an external thermostat instead. Otherwise, the heater may end up making your space too warm– possibly even dangerously so. 

Some of the model’s advantages and disadvantages are below:

  • Easy installation
  • Can be mounted on the ceiling
  • Built-in fan for cooling down
  • Automatic shutoff
  • Expensive
  • Requires an electrician for setup when hardwiring into the electrical system
  • Inaccurate built-in thermostat

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of heater is best for a garage gym?

If you are looking for a heater to put in your garage gym, it is usually recommended that you opt for an electric space heater or another portable electric model. These are easy to take care of and to use. Plus, the portability factor makes it easy to move the heater around to wherever you need it in your gym– especially if you end up investing in more equipment and need to rearrange your garage gym setup!

How do you heat a gym garage?

Garages can be cold, drafty spaces, and very rarely end up being as warm as the rest of your house. They are also more exposed to the elements, so the cold can get in more easily. If you use your garage as a gym– or really for any purpose besides just storage– you will want to be sure to heat it properly. One of the best ways to heat a garage gym is to use space heaters or portable radiators. You could also opt for a portable forced air heater instead. 

How can I heat my garage gym in the winter?

Winter is the season where it will be most important to heat your garage gym– after all, with the temperatures so low, you may not even be able to use the gym during these months if it is not sufficiently heated! Be sure that your garage is insulated and has the proper seals and weatherstripping to keep the cold out and the heat in. Then, you can shop for a heating option. Typically, portable electric heaters like space heaters or forced air heaters are the best choice for a home gym. 

What is the most efficient way to heat a garage?

Of course, you can increase the efficiency of the heat in your garage by making sure that the garage is insulated and sealed up so that heat is unable to escape. That way, you will be paying less to heat the space as the warm air continues to escape, or the cold air gets in from outside. Cold climates typically benefit best from a direct vent heating system in the garage. If you already have the lines in place, it can be efficient and easy to implement! It will also save you money down the line. 

James from the Privateers Garage
About the author

Lucas is one of the core writers and researchers for the Privateers Garage. He lives in Canada and Arizona and has two Garages. He loves writing about garage living, tech and getting stuff done. He is also a professional musician and sound guy.